Relaxed 11-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zagreb to Zadar and Šibenik

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zagreb, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zagreb, and meet locals along the way!

Zagreb is home to plenty of attractions that offer a photogenic, a charming, a picturesque, a breathtaking, a historic, a culturally significant, a culturally significant, and a masterful! Start at Zagreb Zoo, a popular zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Ribnjak Park, enchanting visitors with its peaceful appeal. Continue your exploration at Zagreb Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most well-known spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Zagreb at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Ban Josip Jelačić Statue.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Croatia more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Zagreb offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran Taurus, a highly-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pizzeria Park, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Roots - juice & cocktail bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Krolo, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Kavana Corso offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zagreb. Valhalla Beer Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Croatia!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Croatia means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zagreb. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zagreb. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zagreb!

Today's adventure in Zagreb promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb. This romantic performing arts theater is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Botanical Garden Of The Faculty Of Science, University Of Zagreb, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Technical Museum, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its photogenic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Croatian Museum Of Contemporary Art. This eye-catching museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Bundek, a captivating park, and take a stroll around the area.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Croatia by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zagreb. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zagreb that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Croatia more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Zagreb to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Croatia. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Zagreb, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Štruk, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tagliata offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Batak Grill is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zagreb.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Zagreb.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at A’e Craft Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Budbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mr. Fogg, another top-rated place in the area.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Croatia. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Croatia tomorrow with new energy.

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zagreb, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Croatia are extraordinary.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zagreb, featuring a visually striking, a romantic, a historically significant, a sacred, a grand, and a mesmerizing. Start at Museum Of Broken Relationships, a locally appreciated museum in the city. Then, head to Stone Gate and soak in the ambiance of this stunning historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Zagreb and when you are ready for more, go to St. Mark's Church. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots. After exploring the church, visit the frequently visited Lotrščak Tower.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Croatia. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Zagreb, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Museum of Broken Relationships, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cheese Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zagreb.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Zagreb.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Carpe Diem, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Regular. Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!

Day 5 of your self-drive tour in Croatia is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Zadar for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Croatia.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Smiljan. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await.

Spend your afternoon discovering Northern Velebit National Park, an often recommended national park known for its mesmerizing features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Smiljan, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Žabica may take around 11 min. Upon your arrival in Žabica, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, an up-and-coming museum known for its symbolic features.

When you’ve had your share of Smiljan, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Žabica. Your travel time is around 11 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Jasikovac, Park Suma, an often recommended park known for its visually striking features.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Zadar in this laid-back road trip in Croatia. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Šime, a highly-rated dining destination in Zadar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zadar this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Zadar.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Yachting Bar & Club, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffe Bar Porthos, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Factory Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Zadar!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Croatia, you’ll go deep into Zadar, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zadar, and meet locals along the way!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a romantic, a breathtaking, an eye-catching, a history-steeped, a culturally significant, a noteworthy, and a stunning. Whether you decide to explore Zadar on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Narodni Trg is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking public square before continuing your journey. Market Zadar is your next stop. This worthwhile market is one of the best-rated sights in Zadar.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Sea Organ. This romantic art installation is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Roman Forum and Church Of St. Donatus.

Croatia makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Croatia also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zadar has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to book a table at Restoran "Mamma Mia" Zadar, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Pet Bunara Dine & Wine, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restaurant 2Ribara. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Zadar tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Zadar and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Pirate Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Caffe Bar Bizarre, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Backstage Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Zadar as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Croatia continues on day 7, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Croatia and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Zadar and beyond. With 2 nights left in Zadar, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zadar and set your GPS to Parići. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 49 min. Upon reaching Parići, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Paklenica National Park, an increasingly popular national park known for its gorgeous features.

After soaking in Parići’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rupine. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 45 min. When you arrive in Rupine, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to Pariževačka Glavica, a locally appreciated cliff that draws attention for its romantic features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rupine, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Općina Jasenice may take around 9 min. Upon your arrival in Općina Jasenice, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Maslenica Bridge, an intriguing deck arch bridge in Općina Jasenice.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zadar and your accommodation.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zadar has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Roko, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harbor CookHouse & Club offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Urnebes. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Garden Lounge stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Down Town offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Beach Bar Bamboo is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Zadar as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Zadar and visit amazing attractions in Općina Vir, Nin, Grad Biograd na Moru, Grad Benkovac, and Zadar destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Zadar. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Općina Vir, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zadar to Općina Vir may take around 36 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Općina Vir, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make your way to Plaža Jadro, an often recommended beach that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Općina Vir and set your GPS to Nin. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 20 min. Upon reaching Nin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Solana Nin Salt Museum. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nin and set your GPS to Grad Biograd na Moru. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 58 min. Upon reaching Grad Biograd na Moru, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Plaža Soline, a frequently visited beach known for its serene features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Town Of Biograd, a curiosity-inducing city hall that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zadar.

Exploring the food culture in Zadar offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Savor the flavors at GRICKO, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Konoba Rafaelo beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Konoba Misterija. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zadar tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe Bar Kult, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Teatro Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zadar. Sphinx is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Croatia.

Day 9 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Croatia gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Bogatić. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Šibenik, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zadar and set your GPS to Bogatić. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 6 min. Upon reaching Bogatić, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Roski Waterfall and explore the majestic features.

Make your way to Krka National Park, a widely recognized national park that draws attention for its serene features.

After soaking in Grad Skradin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Primošten. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 1 min. When you arrive in Primošten, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Skradinski Buk. Spend some time admiring the UNESCO world heritage-designated features of the waterfall before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Šibenik. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

Exploring the food culture in Šibenik offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Šibenik by reserving a table at Pelegrini. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. Looking for something different? Fry Guy offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Šibenik.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Šibenik and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Caffe Palma, known for its lively atmosphere. Mystic is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Azimut offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Šibenik as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Croatia with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Croatia!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip across Croatia promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Šibenik and drive in the direction of the village of Dubrava kod Šibenika for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Zagreb, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Šibenik’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Šibenik Cathedral. This history-steeped church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of St. Nicholas’ Fortress, a must-visit castle in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to St. John's Fort, an often recommended castle.

When you’ve had your share of Šibenik, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Dubrava kod Šibenika. Your travel time is around 16 min.

Head to Falconry Center, a beloved bird watching area in Dubrava kod Šibenika. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Zagreb. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Croatia by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zagreb has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restoran ZLATNA ŠKOLJKA, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider RougeMarin, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Otto & Frank. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Croatia.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Mali Grad, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. B Blok Caffe Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Swanky Monkey Garden is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Croatia!